Pricing revealed for 2018 model Holden Equinox SUV

Replacing the Captiva, the new Holden Equinox will initially be available with a choice of either a 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines. A 1.6-litre turbo diesel will arrive next year.

The range-topping LTZ-V will start from $46,290.

Based on the Chevrolet derivative, the Equinox is 4652mm long, 1843mm wide and 1661mm high, making it longer but a tad skinnier and shorter than the Captiva.

It will be a monumental step up for Holden, with the Equinox better equipped to challenge the segment-leading Mazda CX-5 (from $28,690 to $49,990), Toyota RAV4 (from $29,450 to $50,500) and the Hyundai Tucson (from $28,590 to $47,450).

When five-seat Captiva were available the price range spanned from $26,490 for the 2WD LS through to $31,690 for the 2WD Captiva LS diesel. The seven-seat Captiva petrol model currently starts at $30,490 while the top-shelf LTZ AWD is $41,490.

Holden will look to woo buyers with a strong list of technology features including active safety aides such as autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and side blind spot alert, as well as active noise cancellation, driver's seat safety alert, heated front and rear seats, hands-free power tailgate and wireless phone charging.

"We've got premium features like a dual-panel panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel and safety alert drivers seat that gives a small vibration to warn drivers of potential hazards. Not to mention Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a rear-view camera as standard across the range.

"In terms of practicality, Equinox has a huge cargo space of 1798 litres when the fold-flat seats are down, a hands-free power tailgate and the one of the highest towing capacities in the segment.

"With the range starting at $27,990 and a launch offer including seven year/175,000km warranty this car provides outstanding value to our customers."